A Pioneering Perspective: James Chuck

James Chuck, a resident at Piedmont Gardens in Oakland, California, was born in Oakland and has spent his entire life in northern California. At Piedmont Gardens, Chuck has been able to grow his passion for artwork and encourage other residents to showcase their artwork alongside his exhibitions.

Q: How did you find your passion for painting?

A: When I retired from teaching in 2013, I wanted to continue to find ways to challenge myself and keep my mind active. Piedmont Gardens allowed me find my passion for painting by offering community groups and activities that residents can lead. This was my opportunity to further develop my water coloring skills and even create an exhibition to showcase my work.

Q: What has been your greatest accomplishment so far while living at Piedmont Gardens?

A: Last March, I debuted my latest exhibit featuring a collection of Chinese-style paintings replicated from Lucy Wang’s book “Chinese Brush Painting.” Community members could see my work and I had the pleasure of gifting 25 of my exhibit paintings to other residents. It’s important to immerse oneself in culture and art, and this is one way that I can help share it with others.

Q: What’s next for you and your new-found passion for painting?

A: I’m planning on hosting another exhibit this April that will feature faithful reproductions of famous pieces of modern art from the likes of Henri Matisse, Georgia O’Keeffe and Pablo Picasso. These are painting styles of master artists and the subtleties and differences in style vary greatly, even the matting and framing requires a careful eye, which makes completing these so rewarding. I look forward to showing residents more of my masterpieces—and gifting them away again afterwards!